The Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking defensive help ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but league sources say their options are limited and competition is fierce.
Defensive issues were on display again Thursday as Los Angeles allowed 78 first-half points to Utah. Despite an elite offense, the Lakers rank just 21st in defensive efficiency, trailing every top eight team in both conferences.
Coach JJ Redick has been clear about what the roster needs, saying role players need to “defend and shoot 3s” to fit alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and LeBron James. The problem is that there is a demand for the same type of player across the league.
“There aren’t many,” said an Eastern Conference executive. “And everyone wants one.”
Some goals seem out of reach. New Orleans has made it clear that it won’t move Herb Jones for anything the Lakers have to offer, even if an unprotected first-round pick is available once he becomes eligible for trade. Jones’ recent three-year, $68 million extension has only strengthened the Pelicans’ stance.
Other possibilities raise questions. Sacramento’s Keon Ellis could be available as he approaches free agency, although the Kings are believed to be asking for a protected first-round pick. Ellis’ shooting is attractive, but opinions differ on his defensive consistency.
The Lakers have also discussed Andrew Wiggins internally and are keeping an eye on Derrick Jones Jr., who previously played with Doncic.
Other names mentioned by rival executives include Terrance Mann, Josh Green and Ayo Dosunmu, though Chicago is expected to seek significant value for Dosunmu.
With just one tradeable first-round pick and limited second-round assets, the Lakers face an uphill battle as they try to fill an obvious defensive need before the deadline.
Herb Jones and Keon Ellis are among the Lakers’ trade targets to improve the defense https://t.co/gO8FtIpdK4
— RealGM (@RealGM) December 19, 2025
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